Superman in Action Comics #1

Most people know that Action Comics #1 is arguably the most desirable comic book in the world.

Somehow, even if you think Superman himself is uncool, Action Comics #1 is cool. Nic Cage even owned a very fine copy of it once: his comic book was stolen after a party in his home, before turning up after a blind auction purchase on a storage unit. It's more outrageous than a comic book script: you can't make this stuff up!

Nobody is sure just how many copies exist. However, there are only 34 graded by CGC (and 23 restored).

The comic is now over 70 years old. While there are bound to be more Action 1s to find out there, it's incredibly rare, and if you have one, it's a major asset.

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Action Comics #7: 2nd Superman Cover

You'd expect Action Comics #2 to be the second-most-valuable Superman comic book in the Action Comics series. But that's not true.

Vintage Superman comic book covers are far more desirable than non-Superman covers, and collectors pay a hefty premium for the earliest cover art. Don't worry if you "only" have a copy of Action Comics #2, it's still a decent payday for you!

But if you happen to have Action Comics #7, then you have a very appealing book -- the second cover featuring Superman.

Superman in Action Comics #23: First Lex Luthor

The most famous (or should we say infamous!) of Superman's foes makes his evil bow in Action Comics #23. Lex actually has hair in this incarnation -- the first BALD Luthor appearance is in Superman Comic #10 (see below).

There are 47 unrestored copies of this Superman comic book graded, and another 19 restored ones.

Sadly Action Comics #23 is not a classic when it comes to resale values, but it is definitely not a total dud either.

Superman in Action Comics #242: First Braniac

While there are plenty of early issues we have not covered here with significant value (the best way to find out what your early Action Comics are worth is to send us details of your collection), we jump ahead now to Action Comics #242, the origin and first appearance of Braniac.

This comic is amazingly valuable for a late 1950s Superman comic book. Most from the period have value, but the only one which beats it is Action Comics #252 (see below).

It doesn't take a Braniac to realize that the better the condition of this later Superman comic book, the more it will be worth when you want to sell. Unlike the very early Action Comics books, poor copies are comparatively valueless.

Highest price to date: $6,878 (but this will surely be beaten once another 9.0 is sold)

Value of Vintage Batman ComicsWhenever you come across old Batman comic books, check this price guide. We list the key issues, and help you find their values using easy online resources. We'll also value them for you FREE.

Green Lantern Comic Book Price GuideLearn what early issues of the Green Lantern comics are worth, including the first appearance in All-American Comics #16, the 1941 Green Lantern series, and many more. Silver Age coming soon!